Mohammed Siraj creates history, becomes first Indian bowler to take 5-wicket haul in major tournament final

On Sunday, September 17, during the Asia Cup 2023 final, Mohammed Siraj etched his name in Indian cricket history by delivering an outstanding performance, showcasing a remarkable spell of fast bowling. This spell will be remembered as one of the most extraordinary displays by an Indian fast bowler in recent times. Siraj achieved his maiden 5-wicket haul in ODI cricket, leaving the Sri Lankan top-order in shambles as they stumbled to a mere 12 for 6, all thanks to Dasun Shanaka's decision to bat first after winning the toss.

This achievement marked Siraj as the first Indian bowler to secure a 5-wicket haul in the finals of an Asia Cup tournament, underlining his exceptional skill and determination. His impressive figures of 5 for 5 in his initial 3 overs showcased his prowess in swinging the ball both ways, captivating the audience at the R Premadasa Stadium.

In the annals of Indian cricket, Siraj joined the elite ranks, becoming only the second Indian bowler after the legendary Anil Kumble to achieve a 5-wicket haul in a major tournament final. Anil Kumble's feat dates back to the CAB Jubilee Tournament in 1993, where he secured 6 wickets against the West Indies in the final.

Siraj's 6/21 is the best figures against Sri Lanka in an ODI, surpassing Waqar Younis' 6/26 in Sharjah in 1990.

The extraordinary spree of wickets initiated with Jasprit Bumrah's dismissal of Kusal Perera in the opening over of the match. Siraj, following Bumrah's start, began his assault with a maiden over and then unleashed a fearsome second over, claiming 4 wickets. He culminated his exceptional performance by dismissing the Sri Lankan captain, Dasun Shanaka, with a sensational outswinger in just his third over, leaving the enthusiastic Sri Lankan crowd at the RPS in sheer astonishment.